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Does the Ford Explorer have 6 seats?

Yes — the Ford Explorer can be configured to seat six or seven people, depending on the seating setup you choose.


Two main seating configurations


The Explorer’s interior offers two primary passenger-count configurations. The middle row can be a three-seat bench or two captain’s chairs, while the front row remains two seats and the rear row has two seats. Here are the typical arrangements you’ll encounter:



  • 7-passenger configuration: Front row two seats, middle row a 3-seat bench, and rear row two seats.

  • 6-passenger configuration: Front row two seats, middle row two captain’s chairs, and rear row two seats.


These configurations reflect the common ways Ford markets the Explorer’s interior: a standard seven-seat layout with a three-person middle row, or a six-seat layout that replaces the middle-row bench with two captain’s chairs. Availability can vary by year, trim, and regional market.


What this means for real-world use


In practice, a seven-passenger setup is ideal for larger families or those who regularly shuttle more people. A six-passenger setup with captain’s chairs in the middle row can improve front-to-rear access to the third row and provide easier entry to the back seats, at the cost of one seat in the middle row.


Availability by model year and trim


Ford has offered both configurations across multiple model years, with the captain’s chairs option typically appearing as an upgrade or as part of a trim package. The exact availability can depend on the generation (e.g., latest redesigns vs. earlier variants) and the country where the vehicle is sold. If you are shopping, verify the seating layout for the specific trim and optional packages on the model year you’re considering.


Practical considerations


Beyond seating counts, buyers should consider how the configuration affects cargo space, second- and third-row accessibility, and overall interior comfort. The six-seat setup often provides easier access to the third row and more driver/passenger comfort, while the seven-seat setup maximizes passenger capacity but may compromise some knee room or headroom in the middle row, depending on the seat fabric and track layout.


Summary


The Ford Explorer can accommodate either six or seven passengers, depending on whether the second row uses a bench (seven seats) or captain’s chairs (six seats). Front seating remains two seats, and the rear row typically seats two as well. When shopping, check the specific trim and model year to confirm the exact seating configuration offered for that vehicle.

Which Ford has 6 seats?


Ford offers 6-seater vehicles in the form of the Ford Explorer SUV, which has an optional configuration with captain's chairs in the second row, and the Ford Transit Custom van, available in specific configurations like the 6-seat doublecab. Other Ford models like the Ford F-150 SuperCrew can also seat up to six passengers. 
Ford Explorer

  • Configuration: The Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that can seat up to seven passengers, but can be configured to seat six by choosing second-row captain's chairs instead of a bench seat.
  • Features: This configuration is available on newer models, including the 2025 model year. 

Ford Transit Custom
  • Configuration: Certain Transit Custom models, such as the doublecab, can be outfitted with three seats in the front and a three-seat bench in the second row, creating a 6-seater vehicle.
  • Features: This configuration is considered rare and can be especially useful for businesses that need to transport staff or for family use.
  • Availability: Examples include the 2025 Ford Transit Custom 320 with a 6-seat configuration. 

Ford F-150 SuperCrew
  • Configuration: The SuperCrew cab configuration of the F-150 pickup truck can seat up to six passengers. 
  • Features: This allows for the combined use of a spacious cab for passengers and the cargo bed of the truck. 

Other models
  • Ford Expedition: The Expedition, a full-size SUV, also offers third-row seating and can accommodate six or seven passengers depending on the configuration.
  • Ford Flex (discontinued): The Ford Flex, which was produced from 2009 to 2019, was a full-size crossover SUV that standardly came with a 3rd-row and could seat up to six or seven passengers. 



Can a Ford Explorer fit 6?


Conclusion: Seating Comfort and Flexibility Summary
The 2025 Ford Explorer provides seating for up to seven passengers, with second-row captain's chairs available for a 6-passenger layout.



Does the Ford Explorer seat 6 or 7?


Number of Seats in Each Ford Explorer Trim
The Explorer's standard seating configuration typically accommodates seven passengers. This makes it an excellent choice for families or groups who need plenty of room for both passengers and cargo.



Do any Ford Explorers have 3rd row seating?


Ford's lineup for this year offers spacious, versatile SUVs built to carry your family, friends, and gear comfortably. The two standout models with 3rd row seating are the all-new 2025 Ford Explorer and the full-size 2025 Ford Expedition.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.